FAQs for Students

Frequently asked questions

You’ll likely have lots of questions at this exciting stage of your career journey. We have tried to answer some of them below.

Do I need to apply for the programmes via UCAS?

No, the programme is independent of UCAS. This means you can still apply to UCAS at the same time as submitting an application to us and it doesn’t take up any of your options.

Will I miss out on the social side of going to university?

Not at all. Our sponsored degree students form a very strong friendship group and do a lot together socially and you can afford it as you’re earning a salary. Unlike University the students will use their weekends to socialise. And they take advantage of the CGI Sports and Social club where they get lots of discounts and money off comedy, theatre, music and more events. If you want to speak to students currently on the programme then get in touch with us at ukstudents@cgi.com.

I'd need to relocate to take part in the programme, can I?

Yes. CGI will cover up to £1,000 of relocation costs if you live outside of a reasonable travel distance. Most of our students choose to relocate to their base office and commute to university.

Many of our current undergraduates have relocated and we make sure to support each new intake and answer any location queries they have.

If you want to get in touch with someone who has relocated and is currently on a school leaver programme or our dedicated relocation team then get in touch with us at ukstudents@cgi.com to answer all of your questions.

What happens if I fail a course, module or a whole year? (Not applicable for apprenticeships)

While we look for the commitment to work hard and balance work and study, we know this is a big step and that some students may struggle with elements of the course. Regular contact with your tutors at the University and your manager at CGI will make sure we spot any difficulties you may encounter. We treat each person individually, and will work closely with you so you have all the support you need. We do expect our students to graduate with a minimum of a 2:1 in their degrees.

What happens if I fail a course, module or a whole year?

(Not applicable for degree apprenticeships/grad level apprenticeships) While we look for the commitment to work hard and balance work and study, we know this is a big step and that some students may struggle with elements of the course. Regular contact with your tutors at QA and your manager at CGI will make sure we spot any difficulties you may encounter. We treat each person individually, and will work closely with you so you have all the support you need. We do expect our students to pass their apprenticeship.

Am I guaranteed a job at the end of the programme?

You’ll already be a permanent employee, and will continue to be employed by CGI as long as you complete the programme successfully and meet our expectations.

Do you accept applications from people who need a work permit?

We welcome applications from anyone who is legally entitled to work in the UK without restrictions. We regret that due to current Home Office guidelines we’re unable to sponsor work permits for undergraduate positions.

Due to UK Government security requirements we are only able to accept applications from candidates who have the unrestricted right to live and work in the United Kingdom, and have lived in the United Kingdom for a minimum of 5 years with no breaks of 28 days or more. Please contact us if you have any queries.

How does the assessment process work?

If your application is successful, we’ll send you full details of the assessment process, which will include an interview, written exercise and a group exercise. You’ll be able to visit our offices during the process too, so you can find out more about what we do, ask questions and decide whether the programme is right for you.

If I'm successful,when will I start work?

The apprenticeship programme has multiple intakes. The latest information will be available on our website or feel free to get in contact with us at ukstudents@cgi.com

Our Degree Level Apprenticeship/Grad Level Apprenticeship has set start dates due to the academic year. These will all be September 2018.

What is the dress code like at CGI?

As a general rule we wear business attire. However, this depends where you're based and what you're doing. We’ll be able to give you more information if you’re offered a position. For interviews, you should always dress smartly.

Is there a closing date for applications?

Our apprenticeship programme does not have a set closing date as we recruit all year round depending on what vacancies we have at the time.

Our Grad Level Apprenticeship/Degree Apprenticeship will be closing for application in early March 2019. However we would encourage you to get your application in as soon.

CGI school leaver brochure

From the moment you join CGI as a school leaver, you’ll be playing a vital role in the services we deliver to our clients.                                                                                                                                                               

 

Download the brochure